What Is “Privilege” in a Port Charlotte White Collar Crime Case?

If you face allegations of white collar crimes in Port Charlotte, you may be extremely wary about what you say. Whether you’re under investigation or already facing charges, words matter. Even a single sentence uttered in the wrong circumstances can be self-incriminating. But what about your discussions with an attorney? What is “privilege” in this context, and can you trust your Port Charlotte defense attorney?

What Is “Attorney-Client Privilege?”

When you face criminal charges, one of the first things you’ll hear is “anything you say can and will be used against you.” This is true, and you might consider exercising your right to remain silent in the immediate aftermath of your arrest. However, the benefits of remaining silent end when you get a chance to speak with an attorney.

Once you are conversing in private with your defense attorney, it makes sense to be much more forthcoming. The more information you provide to your attorney, the easier it may be for them to defend you against your white collar crime allegations. You will not gain much from keeping certain details secret, and this degree of hesitancy may reduce your chances of a positive outcome.

In this situation, it is important to understand the concept of “attorney-client privilege.” This rule states that your lawyer must ensure the confidentiality of your private discussions. Even if you admit to committing the crime you have been accused of (or any other offense), your lawyer cannot notify the authorities. They also cannot repeat your private statements to anyone else, regardless of their nature.

There are only a few exceptions to this rule. Perhaps most notably, your lawyer is legally required to notify the authorities if you admit that you are planning to commit another crime in the near future. In other words, the attorney-client privilege only applies to past and present events. If your attorney violates this rule, they may lose their license to practice law. As a result, you can tell your lawyer virtually anything without worrying about legal or reputational consequences.

Will My Lawyer Still Defend Me if I Admit Guilt?

If you admit to your lawyer that you are guilty, they still have a duty to defend you to the best of their abilities. This means that they must pursue the best possible results on your behalf, which is, of course, an acquittal or a dismissal. That said, your lawyer may advise various strategies based on the facts of the case. Under certain circumstances, a plea deal may be more advisable than a not guilty plea. Whatever your lawyer advises, you always have the final say.

Can I Trust My Port Charlotte Defense Attorney?

If you face allegations of white collar crimes in Port Charlotte, it can be difficult to know who to trust. However, your defense attorney should be a reliable ally in this scenario. With a few minor exceptions, you can discuss all kinds of topics with your defense attorney without fear of repercussions. Continue this conversation with The Foley & Wilson Law Firm to learn more about your next steps.

Source: 

leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0000-0099/0090/Sections/0090.502.html